Update (July 12, 4:50 p.m.): NASCAR announced July 12 that it has approved a playoff waiver for Michael Annett, meaning he will be able to compete in the NASCAR Xfinity Series playoffs, should be qualify.
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Josh Berry will substitute for JR Motorsports driver Michael Annett in the NASCAR Xfinity Series on July 17 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, the team announced on July 12.
It will be the second Xfinity race Annett has missed due to a leg injury, leading to Austin Dillon filling in for him last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway. A MRI revealed that Annett suffered a stress fracture in his right femur, which will require surgery for the 35-year-old.
Berry ran 12 races for JRM in the No. 8 Chevrolet, earning his first career win at Martinsville Speedway in April. The Hendersonville, Tenn., native has also competed in three events for Jordan Anderson Racing in the No. 31 Chevrolet, including at Atlanta. In 15 starts, Berry has recorded four top fives and eight top 10s in addition to his win.
JRM has requested a medical waiver for Annett in order for him to be eligible for playoff contention. Annett currently sits in 10th in points and 11th in the playoff standings.
With a two-week break coming for the Tokyo Olympics following the New Hampshire race, Annett’s doctors estimate the three-week recovery will enough time for him to return to the car on Aug. 7 at Watkins Glen International.
Entering his fifth year with Frontstretch, Luken Glover is the author of The Underdog House, shedding light on the motivation and performance of NASCAR's dark horse teams as they strive to fight to the top. Additionally, Glover reports for the site at various events, and he contributes in the video editing department.
A 2023 graduate of the University of the Cumberlands, Glover is a middle school math and PE teacher, as well as a basketball coach. He is passionate about serving in his church, playing/coaching a wide variety of sports, and researching motorsports history.